Byrne passed away on Monday aged 70 after a battle with illness. Born in Rathdowney, Co Laois, he moved to London as a 12-year-old and played for Millwall before joining Southampton in 1964.
A talented midfielder who converted into defence, he won 14 caps for Ireland and spent ten years with the Saints before joining Hereford United and later had a stint with Newport County.
He made his Ireland debut against Denmark in October 1969. He was part of the Hereford United side that won the English Third Division in 1975-76.
FAI CEO John Delaney paid tribute to Byrne this afternoon. He said: “I was saddened to hear of Tony Byrne’s passing. He was an excellent servant for the national team at a time when it wasn’t glamourous to do so.
“He had an excellent career in the game and most notably was a first regular at Southampton in the top flight. His journey from Rathdowney in Co Laois to become a professional footballer was a remarkable story in its own right.
“We were delighted that he attended the gathering of the former international players at Croke Park in 2007. Our sympathies go to his family and friends. We will pay tribute to him at our next home international.”